Uneasy Truce on Ethics Charges
Takes Hold, for Now, in Congress

WASHINGTON -- In the aftermath of bickering over impeachment and scandals, it's truce time -- temporarily, at least -- on ethics charges in Congress.

Exhibit A is reaction to news accounts that recently questioned Rep. Tom DeLay's truthfulness in a business-related lawsuit. The fiercely partisan Texas Republican was one of President Clinton's biggest critics during the impeachment debate. But instead of escalating the controversy,...